Worcester’s Chris Latham has returned home to continue his rehabilitation in Australia after suffering a season ending injury.

The former Australian international has been one of the few bright points in a disappointing campaign for the Sixways outfit but even that has come to an end following a fractured scapula and dislocated shoulder sustained against Gloucester last month.

Having already missed time with turf toe and strained knee ligaments the 33-year-old has decided to call time on his first campaign in a Warriors’ shirt and has flown back to his homeland to continue his rehabilitation in conjunction with the Queensland Reds medical team.

“My original intention was always to remain in Worcester until the end of this season, but after suffering the nature of the injury that I have the opportunity arose to return home and be surrounded by the rest of my family,” said Latham.

“With the extent of the injury I felt I needed the full support of my family around me and I appreciate the club’s understanding.

“I’ve really enjoyed my first full season at Warriors and I’m very much looking forward to getting back and getting stuck into next season.

“With the disappointment of the players and fans, nothing motivates me more than coming back ready to play my part in achieving the success this club craves and stepping back out on the Sixways pitch on the first day back.”

Latham’s injury was just the latest to beset Worcester this season. Director of rugby Mike Ruddock has already lost Sam Tuitupou, Matt Cox, Chris Horsman and Tevita Taumoepeau for the rest of this term and has had to constantly shuffle his back-line.

“We’ve an open line of communication with Queensland Reds medical team and conditioners and obviously we’ll be in constant contact with the support staff who are facilitating Chris returning from injury in his native land,” Ruddock said.